autogordels

Autogordels, known in English as seat belts, are restraint devices installed in motor vehicles to secure occupants and reduce injuries in crashes. They come in several forms, most commonly two-point lap belts or three-point belts that secure across the pelvis and chest. Some newer systems use additional features such as inflatable belts.

The modern three-point seat belt was invented by Volvo engineer Nils Bohlin and introduced in 1959. It rapidly spread to other manufacturers and jurisdictions, becoming a standard safety feature in many countries during the 1960s and 1970s. Over time, regulations and technology have expanded their use and effectiveness, including in rear seats and for child restraints.

Design and features: In addition to basic belts, many vehicles include pretensioners that tighten the belt in a crash and load limiters that allow some belt slack to reduce chest loads. Some belts are part of systems with inflatable components, integrated airbags, or dedicated anchors for child seats (LATCH in the United States, ISOFIX in Europe). Seat belt reminders and advanced seat belt systems are common in modern vehicles.

Effectiveness: Wearing a seat belt markedly reduces the risk of fatal injury for front‑seat occupants and lowers the likelihood of serious injuries. Estimates vary, but belts are consistently shown to reduce fatalities by around 40–50% in many crash studies, with substantial benefits in a wide range of crash types.

Regulation and usage: Seat belt use is required by law in most countries, with penalties for non‑use. Regulations often cover front and rear passengers and mandate appropriate child restraints. Maintenance involves checking for frayed webbing, ensuring retractors function properly, and replacing damaged belts.